Families Central Scotland Jan-Feb 2015 Issue 26

FREE

Central Scotland’s really useful magazine for busy families of children age 0-12

Issue 26 Jan/Feb 2015

In this Issue

• Birthday party feature • New Year new you • Out and about

Falkirk’s newurs! fantastic flavo Now serving fresh homemade soup, Scottish stovies and innovative ice cream flavours every day from 10am until 5pm.

Glen Farm Glen Village Falkirk FK1 3AA Tel. 01324 630703 www.themilkbarn.co.uk

www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk

editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk

079302 64979

Little Stars Stirling is now in partnership with Stirling Council for pre-school funding and now taking bookings for the new term.

Where the stars of the future shine!

• Graded Excellent in 7 areas by SCSWIS 2014 • Set in beautiful surroundings near Dunblane with ample parking • Open all year round from 7.30am to 6.30pm • All meals included - home cooked by our in-house chef • Fully qualifed & trained staff

Babies to 5 years

www.littlestarsnurseries.net STIRLING

Arnhall Nursery is a private day nursery that provides high quality childcare from birth up to 5 years

Craigforth House, c/o Prudential Craigforth, Stirling FK9 4UE 01786 445552.

For further details or to arrange a visit please contact the Nursery direct

on 01786 822 391 Keir Estate, Dunblane FK15 9NU www.arnhallnursery.co.uk

Pre Schoo l

Fund Avail ing able

Also at ALLOA and FALKIRK see website for detail.

Discover yourself at Beaconhurst Nursery Award Winning Nursery for 3-5 year olds Your children can discover...

Cycling skills, Foreign Languages, Daily Outdoor Learning, Dangerous Dave Explorer Club, Music & Drama, Friendships, Lots of trips and adventures Provide an exceptional start to your child’s education and

www.beaconhurst.com

Family Hostelling: get out there together!

Central Scotland’s

Book now for a 10% discount really useful magazin

Hi and a very Happy New Year to you all. Our January/February issue is packed with lots of great New Year ideas as well as our fantastic birthday parties feature, so whether you are looking for a dance, sporty, creative or musical party we have some great suggestions from your local party entertainers. We have an informative article on bedwetting and as always local news/views, parent to parent interview and our handy out and about guide to events in the local area. Enjoy! e for busy families

of children age 0-12

FREE Issue 26 Jan/Feb 2015

In this Issue

• Birthday party feature • New Year new you • Out and about

The Jack & Jill

Falkirk’s new fantastic flavours!

Now serving fresh homemade soup, Scottish stovies and innovative ice cream flavours every day from 10am until 5pm.

Glen Farm Glen Tel. 01324 630703Village Falkirk FK1 3AA www.themilkba rn.co.uk

Upcoming Dates: Sat 7 Feb / Sat 7 March

Sell & Save

Scotland’s Quality Nearly-new Baby & Kids Market

Book a Stall Keep 100%

Adults £1.50

40 stalls bursting

with quality nearly-new

baby and kids buggies,

bikes, cots, clothes,

toys, games and all

www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

The Jack & Jill Market

Market Event Across

is a not-for-profit

www.familiescentr alscotland.co.uk

contact us

Market

Where Smart Mums

Stirling

MONTHLY MARKETS,

St. Modans High School, Royal Stuart Way, Stirling, FK7 7WS 10.30am-1.00pm

Community Interest

Organisation registered

Scotland Every Weekend

the rest (0-9yrs)

+ Free Online Market.

in Scotland

editor@familiescen tralscotland.co.uk

079302 64979

Fiona & Louise the editors

To advertise with us, have your event listed or to give us your feedback email us at editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk Bookings are now being taken for the March/April 2015 issue – deadline 1st February.

Find and like us on facebook at www.facebook.com/FamCS and on twitter@familiescentral and visit our website at www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk for more articles, our on line directory and our fantastic new what’s on search facility.

contents Local news and views.......................................page 4-5 New Year resolutions........................................page 6-7 Parties feature....................................................page 8-11 Parent to parent....................................................page 12 Bedwetting................................................................page 13 Out and about........................................... .....page 14-15 Circulation 12,000 copies delivered directly to nurseries, playgroups, health centres, libraries, leisure facilities as well as selected shops, cafes and schools. Please contact us if you wish to receive our media pack, detailing costs and sizes of adverts.

Design

- Gillian McKendrick of Lamb Designs

Printers

- J Thomson Colour Printers

Families Central Scotland is part of a larger group of magazines headed

by Families SW London who are celebrating 20 years of publishing. All Franchised magazines are operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials are sent at the owners own risk and while every care is taken neither families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

Book online at www.syha.org.uk Quote: ScotFam15 Terms & Conditions: Offer is available on bookings made between 1 January and 28 February 2015, for stays between 3 January and 22 March 2015, bed & room bookings only. Subject to availability, code applies to new bookings only. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. No discounts can be applied retrospectively.

Reservations T: 0845 293 73 73

syha.org.uk

Scottish Youth Hostels Association (also known as SYHA or Hostelling Scotland) is a registered Scottish charity No.SC013138 and a company limited by guarantee, registered in Scotland, No. SC310841. Registered Office 7 Glebe Crescent, Stirling, FK8 2JA.

Increase your chances of success in under 10 seconds

Beaconhurst School launches search for new talent

Potential clients and customers judge you or your company within a few seconds of their first contact with you – it may be your brochure, visiting your social media or webpage; first impressions are more important than most people realise.

Talented youngsters are invited to apply for a scholarship place at Beaconhurst School. The school is looking for pupils who excel in academic ability or in a particular area – whether that be music, sport, drama or art - to join its community as part of an ongoing Scholarship programme which began in 2013.The 2015 scheme is aimed at senior school pupils who would benefit from the chance to combine a first-class, independent education with the flexibility to pursue their talent.

Top companies and brands the world over recognise the importance professional photography plays in increasing their business, gaining new customers or just showing that they are the ones to trust.However some businesses give a poor impression, letting themselves down with poor photography frequently in an attempt at cost-cutting a business decides to do their own photography but ends up damaging their brand with amateur-looking shots and putting potential clients off.

For over 11 years Seppi Preston of Lighthouse Studios has been helping local, national and international companies create professional images that reflect their personality to help start or grow their business, at great rates. Whatever your photographic needs – people shots (Seppi is great at getting the most reluctant of subjects to feel at ease), your premises (maybe a restaurant, an office, a hotel, we can show it in its best light), photos of your events, or possibly product photography to stand out in the crowd - we will give you professional images that will help you shine. Lighthouse Studios, Making businesses look great since 2003. www.lighthousestudios.co.uk 01786 475007

Beaconhurst headmaster John Owen says: “We are actively seeking children who will benefit from the quality education we can provide combined with a flexible, tailored approach to the development of their particular talent - wherever that lies. The Scholarship scheme is about rewarding potential and I’m looking forward to welcoming new pupils who will in turn benefit and enrich our school community.”

Scholarship Week runs from Monday January 26 to Friday January 31 and application forms and information packs are now available from the school office. A limited number of Scholarship places will be offered to pupils at S5 entry levels and the school will be holding an Open Afternoon on Thursday 29th January 2015 for anyone wanting to see round the school or nursery. For more details about the scheme call into the School or phone 01786 832146 for a Scholarship pack.

Start-Up Stirling A huge thanks to everyone who supported our Christmas Appeal and helped us make the festive period special for those most in need in our community. With your help, we were able to provide 160 people (around 40 of whom were children) with a pack of Christmas goodies, a £5 voucher and gifts. With more people finding themselves struggling to provide the basics, there is increasing demand on our Food Banks and so we would like to ask for your support throughout 2015.

If you have set yourselves any challenges this year – whether you intend running 10K, climbing Ben Nevis, stopping smoking, or hosting a tea party, please choose Start-Up Stirling to benefit. We’ll provide fundraising support and materials and will help you all the way. So please join Team Start-Up Stirling… we’d love to have you involved. Contact Joanie on joanie@startupstirling.org.uk or on 07753883145 for more information.

Contact Gail 01259 211218 forthvalley@stepaheadtuition.com

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families central scotland / issue 26

Are you a mum to be or new mum looking for

Life changing approach to Dyslexia Stirling is home to a life changing programme helping people overcome dyslexia and related processing issues. Based at the University’s Innovation Park, Cellfield is a unique approach introduced to the UK in 2009 by former Headteacher and teacher, Fiona Macdiarmid who runs Stirling’s successful Kip McGrath tutoring centre. Fiona researched approaches available to help students with dyslexia and travelled to New Zealand for specialist training believing passionately that Cellfield’s unique brain plasticity approach would help people break through the barrier to their learning caused by processing difficulties.

Fiona’s faith has paid off as many people have since benefitted from Cellfield.

A natural and active birth preparation class?

Dad friendly birth workshops?

Massage and yoga inspired classes for baby?

Do you want to Feel more confident about your upcoming birth & happier in your pregnant body?

Learn how to calm and soothe your new baby with massage and movement?

Find out more about Lazy Daisy Forth Valley and our pregnancy and baby classes Book your space with your local Daisy teacher: Stirling, Falkirk & Bridge of Allan Your Local Daisy Teacher via 07815925025 or by nicola-beveridge@lazydaisybirthing.co.uk

Cellfield is a multi sensory computer based programme which develops and strengthens the areas in the brain used for language processing. After only 2 weeks clients can gain on average 2 years in reading age, however the benefits extend beyond reading and can be life changing as the positive impact of Cellfield leads to improved confidence and self esteem, helping people towards their potential.

Contact Cellfield on 01786 447527 or visit www.cellfielduk.com

Singing Elf Boost your little cherubs’ cognitive development and communication skills with Singing Elf. Our aim is to provide your wee one with fun and enjoyment whilst focussing on an educational slant (don’t worry though you’re kiddie’s won’t even know it, they’ll be having too much fun!)

With the use of song, movement, props, percussion and sensory play, we’ll follow Singing Elf in her adventures. Singing Elf is not a franchise and has specially recorded music, from the good old nursery rhymes and songs from yester years, to original tracks written by Singing Elf. You can be assured that all the songs have been carefully written and selected with your child’s learning and stimulation at heart. With themes such as ‘counting’, ‘the farm’, ‘things that make you go ooo’ or learning about the body, there’s something for everyone. Contact Emma at singingelf@outlook. com, visit www.singingelf.com or my Singing Elf page on facebook or 07717042197. Classes available in many locations throughout Central Scotland

Physiofocus has been providing physiotherapy for over fifteen years. We treat a wide variety of conditions and ages and our team of 7 Chartered Physiotherapists and 4 receptionists pride themselves in delivering an exceptional level of patient care.

Talk to us! 01786 480048 www.physiofocus.com info@physiofocus.com Brucefields Golf Centre, Pirnhall Road, Stirling FK78EH Registered with all major health insurance companies

5

New year new you

New Year New You: time to detox our lives?

M

any of us wake up on January 1st feeling exhausted from Christmas, a little worse for wear from the night before and desperate for the kids to go back to school. But we also find ourselves scribbling lists of New Year’s resolutions – to get fit, lose weight, get stuck in to that pile of paperwork on the kitchen table and, often, to give our working lives a shake up too. The New Year is not just about detox-ing our bodies – it can also be a time to detox our lives. In fact, January is a fantastic time for those of us with children in nursery or full time education for the first time to go back to work, start a new venture, set up our own business or to re-train in something that will get us leaping out of bed every morning!

From a new job or a whole new career, the world is your oyster as a working mum. If your hours are limited by the school run, setting up your own business or taking up a franchise can offer you the opportunity to do something you love while working flexible hours, and the options are limitless. You can choose anything from running a yoga franchise to teaching little ones dance or drama, from teaching Spanish to starting your own Families magazine! Take a course, start a marketing business, design websites, set up a blog, open a café – it’s up to you. There are plenty of websites out there to help you get started and find a new job, re-train, choose the right business, give you ideas, advise you on tax and even help you design your logo, so there’s no excuse not to get stuck in this New Year. Take a look at www.gov.uk/starting-up-a-business, www.workingmums.co.uk, www.mumandcareer.co.uk, www.mumandworking.co.uk and www.mumpreneuruk.com. You can do it!

Physiofocus has been providing physiotherapy to families in Stirling for over fifteen years. Our goal is to provide the best possible service we can.

Our patients range in age from 2 to 92 years old which means that the treatment goals vary widely. We pride ourselves on being able to adapt everyone’s treatment plan and rehabilitation program to suit them and help to achieve their goal. At Physiofocus we also treat many young people as they grow and their muscles and bones develop. During a growth spurt bone grows quicker and muscles have to try to keep up with the length of their bones. This can often lead to a young person being in considerable pain and having to modify their sport. Several of our physiotherapists have specialised in this area and we are always happy to give advice by phone as to whether physiotherapy would be beneficial. Physiofocus, Brucefields Golf Centre, Pirnhall Road, Stirling www.physiofocus.com 01786 480048

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families central scotland / issue 26

reen Fun

.g Christmas can leave both our waistbands and . oo dgreenfun houses bulging. The New Year diet may be underway but how about your spring clear out?!

Why not recycle last year’s toys or those unwanted Christmas presents and help support a good cause this spring?

Good Green Fun is a Stirling based charity, which specialises in recycling children’s items. It runs a shop in Stirling, selling a wide range of high quality and affordable second hand children’s items including clothes, toys, books, prams, cots and baby equipment. The organisation aims to help local families provide for their children, whilst reducing the amount of waste going to landfill. The charity relies on donations from the public and would be especially grateful for larger items such as prams, cots, changing tables and high chairs, for which there is always a high demand.

A free collection service is available upon request.

Why not visit the shop to look for some eco-friendly bargains? It stocks many of the most popular brands and all donations are thoroughly checked by trained staff, so you can shop in the knowledge that products are high quality and safe.

GGF, Stirling Enterprise Park (on the same road as Aldi and B&M) www.goodgreenfun.co.uk w

Physiofocus, Stirling

Good

ww

Do you lack motivation going to the gym or feel you are getting bored of the same exercise routines? Do you feel that when you go to the gym there is very little motivation?

Come along to the ladies only Fitness Kickboxing classes in the Falkirk area. We set goals for you whether it is for weight loss, muscle tone, flexibility, self defence, or general fitness and well being, we cater for everyone. You don’t have to be fit to join as that is our job… to get you fit! Shaw Martial Arts is a family orientated school, and we offer classes to suit everyone, TKD Tigers for age group 3-6 years, Taekwon-do for age 7 years plus, Ladies only Kickboxing classes for age 13 years plus, and Combat Kickboxing for anyone age 13 years plus. Check our website at www.shawmartialarts.co.uk Tel: 07734 461615 or 01786 818602

Have some Good Green Fun!

co .uk

Shaw Martial Arts

University of Stirling Sports Centre Get everyone in the family involved in the New Year exercise routine – it’s sure to help everyone stick to their plan. There are plenty of sporting opportunities for all the family at the University of Stirling Sports Centre. From a game of tennis to a splash in the pool or a game of football on one of our artificial pitches, sport at Stirling is very much a family affair.

Memberships provide access to the swimming pool and gym as well as to a wide range of fitness and health classes. Competitive dads can book a pitch for a game of football with their friends and everyone can hop on their bike in one of our indoor cycling fitness classes. And the in-house Clive Ramsay café ensures you can recharge the batteries and relax with a coffee and a bite to eat. It’s not just the prices, or the wide range of activities which makes the University an excellent environment to enjoy sport; it’s the people. Our staff know their stuff and will make sure the whole family have an unforgettable experience. 01786 466900 www.stir.ac.uk/sports-centre

New year new you Improve your IT skills If there’s one New Year’s resolution I would suggest it’s improve your knowledge on your computer or tablet. If, in your household, you only use your tablet or laptop for Facebook and online shopping why not learn to do more?

Your children are likely to become experts very soon if they’re not already. If you’re a stay at home parent and you’re thinking of getting back into the workplace you may find your computer skills need updating. You’ll probably need knowledge of Microsoft Office, how to send attachments and how to fill in all sorts of online forms. Nowadays you need to know about Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, YouTube and all the other social media apps your kids are using, you need to switch on parental controls and monitor what your kids are saying and seeing online. Your New Year’s resolutions are about you. Why wait to improve your own skills? Gail McEneny – Gemini SolutionZ www.geminisolutionz.co.uk 07930 527051

Health and fitness with FCT Get your spark back this January with Falkirk Community Trust Health and Fitness! If you join in January, you’ll get your 7th month membership free!

FCT can provide lots of motivation in the form of friendly, helpful staff who are trained to help you reach your fitness goal. Whether that’s weight loss, strength or just general toning and health, they are on hand to create a fitness programme which will work for you. If the gym isn’t for you, there’s also a wide range of classes available across three gyms in the Falkirk area – Bo’ness, Camelon and Grangemouth. 2015 will see a brand new gym opening up in Stenhousemuir too!

January is the perfect time to get back on track with healthy eating and fitness –so call the membership line now on 01324 504568 for more information! www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/fitness

Get out and explore Scotland Make 2015 the year you see more of your own country! Hostelling is a great way to explore Scotland and enjoy all the country has to offer.

SYHA Hostelling Scotland has comfortable, safe and quality-assured accommodation for families of all shapes and sizes, with a warm friendly welcome and prices to suit every budget. We even have laundry facilities, cafés, games areas and lounges in many of our youth hostels, which may come in handy when travelling with kids. From big city adventures in Glasgow and Edinburgh where you can visit museums, galleries, parks, castles and other family attractions, to island hopping off the stunning West Coast along Arran, Mull and Skye. Not forgetting the Highlands where you can get outdoors, try new sports or activities and enjoy spectacular landscapes and great wildlife. Scotland has something for everyone. www.syha.org.uk

Resolve to look after your eye health in 2015 Most people enter a new year with the same good intentions; lose weight, give up smoking, be more active. These are all great for the health of you and your family, so why should resolutions regarding your eyesight be any different? Regular eye examinations are quick, easy, free for everyone in Scotland, and could mean potentially harmful conditions are detected and corrected before they cause damage. They can even help your children to get ahead at school. So when you’re making those resolutions at the start of 2015, don’t forget to include booking eye examinations for you and your family. At Ochil Eyes in Clackmannanshire, we specialise in family eye health and can arrange to test the whole family together. For more information, call our friendly team on 01259 752 755 or visit www.ochileyes.co.uk or find us on facebook.

Feel the positive difference We all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy day at work or with the kids and coping with everything can be an everyday battle. Did you know that taking Pharmaton Vitality capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks?

Pharmaton Vitality capsules are packed with vitamins, minerals and the unique Ginseng G115 that’s clinically proven to relieve fatigue and also aid mental and physical wellbeing. Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials and studies. Try Pharmaton Vitality Capsules, to feel the positive difference. (Licensed medicine) For the relief of fatigue.

Always read the label!

Bright ideas for parties

A

birthday party is a ritual of childhood and an event that’s remembered forever. So the pressure is on – how do you ensure success and survival (both your own and your home’s)? Joanna Moorhead guides you through what’s best, age by age.

their favourite cuddlies home at the end though, or there will be tears at bedtime!

The golden rules •

Never have a party that lasts more than two hours • Have a timetable for what’s There’s just one word happening when that matters here: • The younger the child, the fewer the simplicity. Birthday guests parties for tinies can be marvellous, • Party bags can be cheap as chips, memorable affairs, but they don’t need to thanks to charity and pound shops – be elaborate or to involve much expense Birthday Weekly but always have them, they’re hugely or entertainment or special props. In popular Classes parties essence, you’re catering for the grown• Have a plan mapped out for what ups as much as for the children – because should happen when • Ten ball sports • Hassle free for parents at this stage, the adults will definitely

0-3

Small class sizes stay • • (and you’re more than likely to have • Great for both girls and boys For children aged 3-9 • One fixed cost for up to 30 children a few• One lesson weekly for 1 hour grandparents in the mix as well).

• Warm, positive, fun-filled environment • Caring, positive, fun environment • Great fun and games with plenty of action Concentrate on creating a fun, easy, safe space for the children – a soft play space Call 08452 26– 94 with plenty of toys strewn around 26 is ideal enjoy-a-ball.com and make sure the adults are well catered for: if they stay calm, the childrenstirling-clacks will as enjoyaball well. If you want something withfalkirk a bit of enjoyaball a theme, how about a teddy bears’ picnic?

Make sure everyone remembers to take

Weekly Classes

Birthday parties

• Ten ball sports • Small class sizes • For children aged 3-9 • One lesson weekly for 1 hour • Caring, positive, fun environment

• Hassle free for parents • Great for both girls and boys • One fixed cost for up to 30 children • Warm, positive, fun-filled environment • Great fun and games with plenty of action

4-6

At this stage parties can be a bit more ambitious and a time when it is well worth investing in a great entertainer: they are experts, know how to crowd control while producing shrieks and honest laughs. However don’t assume that to put on a great bash you need to spend lots of money. At this age children can have loads of fun without a big outlay; later on, when they’re tweens and teens, you’ll be under pressure to shell out big-time, so don’t pre-empt that now. A party at home or in the local park can be huge fun; traditional party games will be popular, and if you want to push the boat out a bit consider investing in a bouncy castle; or if home really isn’t a possibility, a soft play centre will be hassle-free, if more expensive. Themed parties are great for this age group, and they actually make life simpler for the party organiser: a pirate theme is always popular, or sea creatures, or pick up on your child’s favourite book or TV programme. Dressing up is a big hit for this age group too.

Exciting Interactive & Fun The most original musical baby & toddler classes on the planet

Classes held in Falkirk and Stirling Please contact Lynsey T: 07914023928 E: lynsey@hartbeeps.com Facebook: hartbeepsfalkirk

Call 08452 26 26 94 enjoy-a-ball.com enjoyaball stirling-clacks enjoyaball falkirk

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families central scotland / issue 26

Twitter: HartBeepsFalk

www.hartbeeps.com

Party food tips • • • •

Food doesn’t need to be complicated It does need to include options – many children won’t eat ham/cheese/eggs/grapes/pizza Don’t overface guests with too much food Putting cup cakes rather than slices of cake into party bags makes life easier

Bright ideas for parties

Great birthday present ideas • •

Stirling Pram - a great selection of beautiful products for little ones Toy Hub – fantastic range of great toys, find the perfect pressie for all ages here

7-9

Activities work a treat at this stage, whether you’re at home or in a church hall or at a park. For a popular and low-budget option, think about a baking party at home – weigh out all the ingredients before the children arrive, get them to mix and decorate them and then pop them in the oven to bake while you play a few party games (shortbread biscuits are easy peasy; have a range of cutters for exciting shapes). You can hire someone else to entertain/exhaust your children, this is a great idea for this age group and we have lots of great local party entertainers in Central Scotland.

Great party entertainers/providers • • • • • • •

Bricks 4 Kids – activities to engage your childs creativity and curiosity, for 3-13+ Enjoy-a-Ball – fun and creative games to capture your child’s imagination, for the 4-9 age group.

Falkirk Community Trust – sport themed, soft play, pool parties, pamper parties, tubing parties and more!!

Hartbeeps – great magical musical adventure parties for 0-5 years Macrobert, Stirling – cinema parties for all ages Rugby Tots – fun and games, a great runabout party, for the 4-7 age group Stirling Rock School – recording parties for all ages, be a star for the day

FRIENDS

AFTER-SCHOOL & BREAKFAST CLUBS PRE-SCHOOL CLASSES SCHOOL HOLIDAY CLUBS BIRTHDAY PARTIES & MORE

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07594 062687

rmaitland@bricks4kidz.com Register at: www.bricks4kidz.co.uk/central-scotland/

10-12

Older children like going out to party. To keep the costs down, encourage a smaller number of guests – think about a trip to the seaside or to an exciting adventure playground they’ve not visited before, and remember that the journey can be as much fun as the activity at the end of it. Other ideas are, a trip to a swimming pool, tubing, cinema party or a recording party - all give a great day to remember with lots of fun for all.

S T I R L I N G

ROCK SCHOOL Professional Tuition from one of Scotland’s Premier Rock Musicians

RUNRIG’S BRIAN HURREN Open Monday - Saturday (Ages 3+)

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9

Bright ideas for parties

W

hat to do for their next birthday?

Parties come in all shapes and sizes, just like the demands of our children! We have asked some of our fantastic local party providers in Stirling, Falkirk and Clackmannanshire to tell us about what they offer, taking the stress and mess out of your hands meaning that you can sit back and relax whilst your child has a day to remember! Whether it is music, dance, sports, cinema or creativity, there really is something for everyone out there.

Bricks 4 Kidz

Sick of the same old run of the mill birthday party? Then invite us along for a party with a difference and give your child the best party on the block! Just don’t tell them that the best party they could imagine is actually educational too because at Bricks 4 Kidz® we know how to party whilst we learn, build and collaborate with each other.

Your child can choose to build one of our many proprietary plans during the party or, if you prefer, we can bring some of our extensive range in pre-built form for them to interact with. On top of that they’ll enjoy age appropriate games and challenges using our extensive Lego® collection. We offer several party packages to choose from - or you can design your own - give us a call to talk through your ideas.

If you’re looking for a costeffective birthday party with a difference, look no further than Falkirk Community Trust sporting facilities. A pool party, soft play, or sport-themed party can bring a fresh new option for families who have done it all!

A party that’s high on fun, excitement and Lego® - they think it’s cool, you know it’s educational. Contact Rachel on 07594 062687 or email centralscotland@bricks4kidz.com or visit www.bricks4kidz.co.uk/centralscotland

New party options include pamper parties at Bo’ness Recreation Centre and Run Jump Throw! athletics themed parties at Grangemouth Stadium. Polmonthill Ski Centre can provide a more adventurous celebration with a difference with tubing parties. If you want to create your own party, there are also halls to hire across the Falkirk area in one of our neighbourhood sports centres or town halls. FCT can provide the catering, and save you the task of cleaning up after! Visit the website at www. falkirkcommunitytrust.org and click on Birthday parties to fill out the enquiry form.You can also keep up to date with us on Facebook – search “Falkirk Community Trust”.

Enjoy-a-ball parties

Hartbeeps

If your child is full of beans then let them run off their energy with an Enjoy-a -ball party. Runners up of the What’s on 4 Little Ones Best Kids Party Award 2013. Enjoy-a-Ball parties are great fun for kids and hassle free for parents. Lots of fun and creative games guaranteed to capture your child’s imagination.

Invite up to 30 kids for a one set cost. We provide party invitations and a special medal for your child to keep. We can also give lots of tips to make the day run perfectly! Our expertise in children’s sports coaching, together with our fun-loving nature, makes us the ideal party facilitator to make your child’s day happy, memorable and stress free for mums and dads. Suitable for boys and girls age 4-9. Call 08452 26 26 94 or Claire Spence on 07793 545180 (Stirling & Clacks areas) or Chris Allen 07912 946013 (Falkirk & Cumbernauld Areas) www.enjoy-a-ball.com

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Birthday parties with Falkirk Community Trust

families central scotland / issue 26

Putting the ‘special’ into your little one’s day Specialist children’s party entertainment for very young children and babies, suitable for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th birthday parties. Hartbeeps makes your little one’s birthday the best ever by bringing all the magic of Hartbeeps to life especially for them. Our children’s party entertainment packages are created for you and delivered with our unique props and puppets and all your favourite original baby songs, nursery rhymes and lullabies. Parties can be tailored to your favourite Hartbeeps theme from Old McDonald’s farm to a Jungle Hunt with Nelli the Elephant!

We offer baby parties, toddler parties and children’s party entertainment suitable for all age groups with something that everyone will enjoy! For more information or to book please call Lynsey on 07914023928, email Lynsey@hartbeeps.com visit our Facebook page Hartbeeps Falkirk or our website www.hartbeeps.com Magic Sprinkles, Lynsey.

Bright ideas for parties

Stirling Pram

Providing something special from baby to toddler is what we are all about at - All Things Baby, Stirling Pram. We have a wide range of gifts that offer you something a little bit different. For a fun baby shower gift why not give some BabyArt - Belly kit, always a giggle getting the mould on, but lasts a lifetime. Or why not treat that mum to be with one of our luxury designer changing bags from Nova Harley, these gorgeous bags are exclusively ours in Scotland.

Searching for a collection gift for your work colleague let us put a gift package together for you. Whether it be those practical little bits and pieces every baby needs or something exciting to stimulate baby as they develop we have it all. First birthday? We know what the little ones love!

Let us help you find the perfect gift for the little one in your life.

Find us at Forth Street, Riverside, Stirling orwww.stirlingpramcentre.co.uk orwww.facebook.com/STIRLINGPRAMCENTRE

Book a Rugbytot party NOW !!!

Our parties are focused on games and having fun and are not skill specific so can be enjoyed by everyone, boys and girls from age 4 -7. Our coaches are enthusiastic and well trained to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience.

Toy Hub is your local independent Toy Store based in Dunblane run by husband & wife team Gerard and Helen Gourley. We have everything you need to put on the perfect party – whether looking for birthday balloons and party bags, or choosing just the right gift for the birthday boy or girl, we’re on hand to give you great advice. We can give you gift receipts with every purchase and of course if you simply can’t decide we also offer Gift Vouchers to any value. The Birthday Boy or Girl can also create a birthday wish list with us in store to make it oh so easy for anyone coming to the party.

You can visit us in store or online at www.toyhubdirect.co.uk, with free click and collect on all toys. Why not keep up to date with us daily at www.facebook.com/toyhubdirect or www. twitter.com/toyhubdirect

Macrobert Stirling

If your child is a fan of the silver screen, visit the macrobert arts centre in Stirling for a fantastic kids’ cinema party, which includes the chance to take in a movie at the 134 seater macrobert filmhouse, followed by food from the special childrens’ menu from Clive Ramsay’s at macrobert.

You can bring along your own cake to be distributed to party goers, and macrobert’s spacious foyer is perfect for games and decorations! With special Kids Film Club screenings of the biggest family releases on weekend mornings for just £1.95 per person,Project3_Layout this might be one of the most fun, affordable, hassle-free 1 01/12/2014 17:38 Page 1 parties you’ll ever throw! Phone 01786 466666 or visit www. macrobert.org

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Here at Stirling Rock School, we not only teach music to enthusiastic musicians but have the recording facilities to help make you and your friends stars for the day. Why not celebrate with one of our unique and fun Birthday Recording Parties.

Whether you are a pop princess or a raving rock star, we have everything you need here to make you feel like a star for you and your friends. We have all kinds of gadgetry and wizardry here to make you sound fantastic. Our parties are a full on packed experience that is really great for confidence and team work. We welcome groups of all ages and sizes. Everyone leaves with a CD of the recording. Parties are priced from £85.00.

Call 01786 448417 for more information or visit www. planetkeys.co.uk/stirlingrockschool

The best family-friendly events

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What’s On

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Is there a secret pop star in your household? If so why not come to Stirling Rock School where we offer a recording experience to remember.

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Stirling Rock School

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Feedback from a recent party - ‘“Thanks for a great party on Sunday. The whole family enjoyed it!! The games were fantastic and kept all the children very well entertained, I think you will have a few new Rugbytots!” For further details contact sandra@rugbytots.co.uk or 0845 313 3252

Toy Hub Dunblane

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Favourite shop Well, I’d have to say Good Green Fun (GGF) wouldn’t I?! We’ve saved ourselves a fortune shopping there and we much prefer to buy second hand wherever possible, to reduce our impact on the environment. Children grow out of things so quickly and, working where I do, I see the level of waste involved in raising children. GGF reduces the amount of waste going to landfill, whilst saving local families money, helping them to support their children in these hard economic times.

Favourite park There’s a lovely little play park just below Dunblane High Street. All of the equipment is aimed at little ones so it’s perfect for toddlers.

Favourite children’s club/class We all love Waterbabies. It’s amazing to see Jack’s confidence in the water. It’s really fun but we also feel we’re giving him an important skill for the future too. We go to a class in the Craighalbert Centre in Cumbernauld, it’s really well equipped for babies and the water is lovely and toasty warm!

Favourite day out A perfect day out is a bike ride and a picnic. We have a Weeride Kangaroo bike seat, which sits just in front of you on the bike, nice and safe between your arms

Good

reen Fun

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Why do you like living where you do?

I love living in Dunblane. It has everything you need but is still small enough to be a friendly community, where you get to know lots of local faces. It’s lovely to be near the river and in walking distance of nice play parks and a bustling, active high street. It now has a great selection of independent shops and cafes and the community centre is fantastic for families, there’s always something happening.

and with a good view for the child. Jack loves whizzing along and waving at everyone like royalty!

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ucie Bull lives in Dunblane with husband Colin and their son, Jack (14 months).

Lucie runs the Stirling based charity, Good Green Fun, which recycles and sells children’s toys, clothes and equipment. Visit www.goodgreenfun.co.uk for opening times and more information.

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parent to parent

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Favourite child friendly restaurant The Cardboard Box Café in the Stirling Arcade is fantastic! It has a huge range of toys and activities, so the children can play while you relax with a coffee or lunch and a stunning view of the Ochils. It’s also a social enterprise (not for profit), so you can munch away knowing you’re supporting a worthwhile community service too!

Proudest eco-friendly moment GGF just won the Provost’s Award for Business, in recognition of its success in reducing waste and supporting local families. I feel so proud of the organisation and my team!

Best planet saving tip Don’t get caught up in consumerism.

The manufacturers are proficient when it comes to appealing to a parent’s sense of guilt… you’re a terrible parent if you don’t buy their product for your little one!

GGF has taught me that you don’t need half the stuff you’re told you do (we get so many unused items, which parents say they never needed) and as for the rest… share among friends, buy second hand and choose wisely.

Most loved children’s book Jack loves the Mog books, and all the Julia Donaldson books… The Snail and The Whale is a firm favourite at the moment.

The mixture of rhyme and the illustrations make them great for his age group, as well as older children. My favourites as a child were the Blackberry Farm books by Jane Pilgrim, so I look forward to reading those when Jack’s a bit older.

Most played with toys Anything that isn’t a toy at the moment.

Emptying the kitchen cupboards seems to be the most fun right now!

Any other comment Good Green Fun can be found in the Stirling Enterprise Park on Player’s Road in Stirling (the same road as Aldi and B&M).

No parent should be without Friends and family.

Parenting pet hates People who park in parent and baby parking spaces when they don’t have children with them (or even worse, when they do but the child is at least 12!)…

Grrrr.

Lucie’s local recommendations

Waterbabies swimming classes The Cardboardbox Play Cafe

Favourite family holiday spot We went to Northumberland this summer. Amazing if you love the outdoors… wild windswept beaches, great hiking and cosy tea shops – bliss!

Play park in Dunblane by the High Street Good Green Fun

Unit 5 Stirling Arcade For families who like to play, chat and have fun!

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Wednesday—Saturday 10am-2pm

See website for details of additional weekly groups and events www.cardboardboxplaycafe.co.uk www.facebook.com/cardboardboxplaycafe

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families central scotland / issue 26

bed wetting How to help your child overcome wetting the bed Banishing the wet monster: How to help your child overcome wetting the bed By Elisabeth Dolton

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etting the bed has been the hardest childhood ailment for my children to grow out of. Banishing that wet monster did not come easy and we are not alone. Although all children eventually gain bladder control at night, they do so at different ages, and many children over the age of five still frequently wet the bed. In fact, around 1 in 7 children aged five, and 1 in 20 children aged ten, are frequent bedwetters.

Why children wet the bed is hotly debated.

The majority of bedwetting is inherited. For three out of four kids, either a parent or close relative also wet the bed in childhood. Other causes are overactive bladder syndrome (involuntary passing of urine), or not enough hormone that regulates urine production.

Researchers have found that deep sleepers are more likely to wet the bed, as the brain doesn’t get the signal that the bladder is full.

Children sometimes don’t go to the toilet due to fears such as being scared of the dark.

Starting to wet the bed especially after being dry can be due to emotional problems such as stress and anxiety. Although rare, constipation, diabetes, or an infection can cause bedwetting.

Experts agree there is no one single cause of bed-wetting, and there are a number of methods that can help.

Drinking and eating “Avoid or limit foods that that are spicy, or high in sugar or fat, including fizzy drinks,” says Alyson Carter, a Registered Nutritional Therapy Council Practitioner. “These foods can irritate or inflame the bladder, loosening the muscles, making it harder for a child to keep control.” Fresh foods, and calming foods such as oats, are recommended. Alyson also advises restricting fluids from around 1 ½ hours before bedtime.

Support Parents may be embarrassed to broach the subject, but your GP can take blood and urine tests to rule out any illness or infection, or refer you to a clinic. “We went to see our child’s teacher,” said Sarah, with 7 year old Isabella “and discussed how children asked and went to the toilet. We asked her to help ensure our daughter went to the toilet regularly.”

Exercises There are specific exercises that can strengthen or expand a child’s bladder. “Our doctor suggested that when my son needed to toilet, I make him wait at least 10–20 minutes longer. This helped his bladder expand,” said Lisa, mum to three boys. Another exercise is when they are on the toilet have them go, then stop for a few seconds, then go again, so that they are strengthening the muscles.

Lifting and night pants Waking your child to go to the toilet, and

wearing night pants can increase confidence and help for sleepovers.

However some believe these should be avoided because they interfere with the child’s individual motivation to wake up and use the toilet.

Medical treatment In persistent cases, desmopressin, a manufactured form of the hormone that decreases urine production, can be prescribed. The effects are short term and the problem likely to reoccur when treatment is stopped.

Complimentary and alternative therapies Several complimentary and alternative therapies have been tried including acupuncture, chiropractic care, and hypnosis.

While some parents have reported great improvements it is not a fix all.

Behaviour therapy For younger children motivating them with a sticker chart and rewards is effective. Selfawakening therapy helps older kids recognise when their bladder is full. A simple selfawakening routine may be just before they go to the toilet during the daytime, they lie down in their bedroom, pretend to sleep and think about their full bladder and needing to go.

Re-training Bedwetting alarms specifically help train your child to wake when they have a full bladder.

The alarm’s sensor detects dampness and eventually, the child’s brain learns to pay attention to bladder signals and wakes up naturally before wetting the bed. “They have been so easy to use, the girls had no problem with them and the message really got through,” said Kim, mum of two daughters. “The results were amazing. Not every child will react so quickly, but I would highly recommend giving it a try,” Sam. There is no doubt bedwetting feels embarrassing to talk about and it can be stressful, but every year 15 percent of children who wet the bed, become dry, with no intervention. They will all outgrow it eventually, but if you and your child are motivated to get dry, choose your method and stay positive. It worked for us.

Further information and help ERIC - Education and Resources for Improving Childhood Continence www.eric.org.uk www.uofmhealth.org/health-library

Top Tips •

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Make the bed in several layers, alternating a fitted sheet with a waterproof pad. This allows you to quickly and easily remove the wet items and avoids the need to remake the bed Leave dry pyjamas and towels out.

Make sure there are no hidden fears or problems about getting up at night. Try leaving the bathroom light on and keep a clear path to the bathroom.

Use waterproof covers for the mattress and duvet, and use absorbent quilted sheets. A moisturiser cream is useful to rub on the skin that is likely to become wet, to prevent chaffing and soreness.

Set a reward for your child of getting up at night to use the toilet.

Instead of focusing on making it through the night dry, help your child understand that it is just as important to wake up in the night to use the toilet Bedwetting can damage the child’s self-image and confidence. Prevent this by being supportive and reassure them that bedwetting is common and that they will overcome it Try to be sensitive to any family or school disruption that might be stressful to your child. Do not tease or allow siblings to tease a child who has wet the bed Encourage your child’s cooperation to be dry at night. Give simple explanations about what is happening and the bladder works.

Go to the toilet before going to bed.

13

out & about

aturday 1st September

Whilst every care has been taken to compile the Out and About section please remember that this magazine is printed weeks in advance of the event. Please call and check events with the venue to avoid any disappointment before setting out.

Friday 26th to Wednesday 31st December

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies Macrobert various times.

Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th December

Winter Diesel Gala at Bo’ness Steam Railway Relive the sights, sounds and smells of the Swinging Sixties at our Winter Diesel Gala. www.bkrailway. co.uk Saturday 27th December to Thursday 8th January (ex Tuesdays and public holidays)

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies Bo’ness Hippodrome various times.

Sunday 28th and Monday 29th December

The Singing Kettle presents the Big Christmas Party at the Albert Halls Stirling Superb audience participation, amazing costumes and lots and lots of Christmassy fun - the perfect treat to get everyone in the festive spirit. Dress in a Santa hat and tinsel! 01786 473544.

Tuesday 30th December

Winter Children’s Startrack Athletics Festival at Grangemouth Stadium Even if the weather outside is frightful, children and young people can still keep active with us inside this December at our Winter Children’s Startrack Festival where they can take part in festive themed sporting activities and games. Booking essential, call 01324 590940.

Tuesday 30th and Wednesday 31st December

Black Bun Specials at Bo’ness Steam Railway Complimentary traditional Scottish Hogmanay Black Bun and a hot drink whilst travelling aboard our nostalgic steam railway, juice and shortbread for the kids. www. bkrailway.co.uk Thursday 1st January

New Years Day Skate at the Helix Ready to blow the cobwebs away and start the New Year as you mean to go on? Then join Falkirk Wheelers

14

for a bracing January 1st skate at Helix Park before tucking into your steak pie lunch. For more information visit: www. falkirkwheelers.co.uk 11am.

Saturday 3rd January

Ghostbusters (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th January

Penguins of Madagascar (U) Macrobert 11.15am and 2.30pm.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 (12A) Macrobert various times.

Saturday 10th January

Wildlife Watch Club at Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth 10.30-12.30pm. Monthly wildlife club for children aged 8 to 12 years old. Dress for the weather.

Booking essential, contact the ranger on jupiterranger@swt. org.uk or phone 01324 486475.

Winter Birds Workshop at Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth 2-4pm. It’s a tough time of year for our feathered friends. Lend a hand by making a cosy bird box and some tasty treats to take away.

Drop in anytime between 2 and 3 pm. Contact the ranger on jupiterranger@swt.org.uk or phone 01324 486475.

Storyfun at Larbert Library Come along to our fun, free and friendly Storyfun sessions for 3 - 6 year olds where we read some of our favourite stories and share a fun activity, such as a craft, songs or games. 10.30 free.

Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th January

Paddington (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am and 2.30pm.

The Book of Life (U) Macrobert 11am.

Sunday 11th January

Paddington (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome (autism friendly screening) 2.30pm.

Saturday 17th January

Penguins of Madagascar (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

families central scotland / issue 26

Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th January

The Book of Life (U) Macrobert 11am.

academic performance, to music, art and sports, scholarships.

For information phone 01786 832146 www.beaconhurst.com Wednesday 28th January

Sunday 18th January

Penguins of Madagascar (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome (autism friendly screening) 2.30pm Thursday 22nd January

NT Live: Treasure Island Bo’ness Hippodrome and Macrobert 7pm.

Saturday 24th January

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible… (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Saturday 24th and Saturday 25th January

Tinkerbell and the Legend of the NeverBeast (U) Macrobert 11am.

Big Garden Birdwatch 2015 Take a closer look at the wildlife on your doorstep, and take part in the biggest wildlife survey in the world! You can take part on your own or as a family, and you can even take part in your local park if you don’t have a garden. To get involved, just pick an hour over the weekend and tell us what you see. It couldn’t be easier! www.rspb.org.uk/ birdwatch A Celebration of Burns at Stirling Castle In 1787 Robert Burns visited Stirling Castle after which he returned to his hotel where he etched in to a glass window pane, the now infamous Stirling Lines. Join our tours as we explore his visit to the castle and how it inspired his work. 124pm. Included in admission price. www.stirlingcastle.org.uk Tam O’Shanters Bairns Family Theatre at Mugdock Country Park An enchanting tale that will draw you into the world of Tam O’Shanter and his resourceful Bairns, Fiona and Iain! A charming tale retold beautifully for our young audience to enjoy. Brought to you by Fizzgig Entertainment.

Cost £5 child /£7 adult. Booking essential 0141 956 6100. 1112noon.

Monday 26th to Friday 30th January

Scholarship Week at Beaconhurst School, Bridge of Allan Scholarships are offered to enable children to reach their full potential, from

Training Course: Fun ‘n’ Games at St Mungos School, Falkirk This course is aimed at adult volunteers and teachers and is designed to show warm-ups, games and activities which can be used as part of an extra-curricular club, a holiday programme session or within your class P.E. lessons. Be prepared to get involved with the games, share your own knowledge and have some fun.

Contact Jen Cairns (jen.cairns@ falkirkcommunitytrust.org) for more information. 4pm.

Saturday 31st January

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Saturday 31st January to Sunday 8th March

The Great Tapestry of Scotland at Stirling Castle The largest embroidered tapestry in the world was stitched by hundreds of volunteers and features many iconic sites, including the Battle of Stirling Bridge, the Battle of Bannockburn, Stirling Castle as well as the Forth and Union Canals. www.scotlandstapestry. com Sunday 1st February

New 2 U Sale at Alloa Town Hall 10.30-1pm Have you any pre-loved babies or children’s clothing, toys etc, if so why not book a stall and raise some extra cash? Stands cost £25.

Or alternatively, come along and grab yourself a bargain. For more information phone 01259 404104.

Macrobert & Fish and Game present: The Polar Bears Go Wild! At the Falkirk Town Hall If you’re aged 5 or under, then here’s the show for you, get here on your skis/ shoes/tractor, or paddle your canoe. Brave explorers wanted to join two friendly (but slightly naughty) Polar Bears on the adventure of a lifetime. Where are they going? What will they get up to next? And have they got enough sandwiches? (Polar Bears love sandwiches, everyone knows that.) And remember to keep hold of your ice cream – Polar Bears are always hungry! 12noon and 2pm. For tickets phone 01324 506850 or visit www.

falkirkcommunitytrust.org Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome (autism friendly screening) Little Seedlings Club at Dobbies check in store for details.

Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 7th February

The Big Bad Wolf Children’s Theatre presents Peter Pan: A Musical Adventure at the Falkirk Town Hall The legend of Peter Pan has been delighting families for over 100 years and this musical version of the adventure is perfect for the whole family.

Come and see Never Land and all your favourite characters from Peter Pan to Captain Hook, the Lost Boys to Tiger Lily, brought to life in this spectacular musical from The Big Bad Wolf Children’s Theatre Company. For tickets phone 01324 506850 or visit www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org Saturday 7th February

Annie (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am and 2.30pm.

Jack and Jill Market, Stirling 10.30am - 1pm. 40 stalls of quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, and all the rest (0-9 yrs) Adults £1. St Modans High School, Stirling. To book a stall visit www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Wildlife Watch Club at Jupiter Wildlife Club Grangemouth Monthly wildlife club for children aged 8 to 12 years old. Dress for the weather. Booking essential, contact the ranger on jupiterranger@swt.org.uk or phone 01324 486475.

Sunday 8th February

Annie (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome (autism friendly screening) 2.30pm.

Tuesday 10th February

Kid’s Conservation at Mugdock Country Park 10am – 12pm.

Get dirty, have fun and help out Mugdock’s wildlife! Ranger led conservation task for 8-12 year olds. Booking essential 0141 956 6586.

Wednesday 11th February

The Pine Tree, Poggle and Me at the Falkirk Town Hall Vince wants to explore the forest but he’s too scared to go on his own. Until one day he meets Poggle, a friendly magical creature

who takes him on an adventure exploring the forest and the magical musical tree. A funny, sensory dance theatre piece for ages 0-3, with live music, clapping rhythms and bubble popping to join in with! For tickets phone 01324 506850 or visit www. falkirkcommunitytrust.org Thursday 12th to Monday 16th February

Big Hero 6 (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times Thursday 12th to Saturday 14th February

Macrobert & Fish and Game present: The Polar Bears Go Wild! At the Macrobert If you’re aged 5 or under, then here’s the show for you, get here on your skis/ shoes/tractor, or paddle your canoe. Brave explorers wanted to join two friendly (but slightly naughty) Polar Bears on the adventure of a lifetime. Where are they going? What will they get up to next? And have they got enough sandwiches? (Polar Bears love sandwiches, everyone knows that.) And remember to keep hold of your ice cream – Polar Bears are always hungry!

12noon and 2pm. For tickets phone 01786 466666.

Friday 13th February

Paw Prints and Poos at Jupiter Wildlife Centre, Grangemouth Turn into a nature detective for the afternoon! See if you can identify animals from the clues they leave behind and solve some wildlife mysteries. This event is suitable for children aged between 5 and 10 years old. Booking essential, contact the ranger on jupiterranger@ swt.org.uk or phone 01324 486475.

Friday 13th to Thursday 19th February (ex Tuesday)

Into The Woods Bo’ness Hippodrome various times.

Saturday 21st February

Big Hero 6 (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome Into The Woods Bo’ness Hippodrome.

Sunday 22nd February

Big Hero 6 (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome.

Into The Woods Bo’ness Hippodrome (autism friendly screening)

Children’s Classic Concert present Fiddlesticks at the Macrobert Percussion whizz kids and popular CCC presenters, Owen and Olly, will be joined by some of the best strong players in the country to perform a toe-tapping fusion of classical and traditional Scottish music.

Featuring violins and vbraphones, clarsachs and congas and basses of both the string and drum variety. Fiddlesticks will also include lots of opportunities to join in the musical mayhem.

Performing on stage will be international clarsach soloist Savourna Stevenson, and the prominent Fejes Quartet featuring members of the RSNO. This is a noisy energetic show with plenty of audience participation and chances to play instruments onstage with the musicians. For tickets phone 01786 466666.

Monday 23rd February to Sunday 8th March

Fairtrade Fortnight 2015 For Fairtrade Fortnight 2015, the Fairtrade Foundation are asking you to celebrate the impact of Fairtrade and ask you to turn a spotlight on the producers who grow the products we love. By sharing their stories in a fresh and compelling way, we can remind the UK of the dramatic difference choosing Fairtrade makes and how much it is still needed. www.fairtrade.org.uk Check out local events at www. fairtradestirling.org or Falkirk Fairtrade Steering Group or Clackmannanshire Steering Group.

Saturday 28th February

Tinkerbell and the Legend of the NeverBeast (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Saturday 28th February and Sunday 1st March

Alloa Ballet Company and Stirling Academy of Dance present The Wizard of Oz at the Macrobert Over 200 pupils from Alloa Ballet Company and Stirling Dance Academy participate in a new one act ballet based on the well known story The Wizard of Oz.

out & about

from across Stirling Falkirk and Clackmannanshire will take to the stage to compete in the annual Forth Valley Schools competition. 7.30pm.

Thursday 5th March

World Book Day Look out for your £1 voucher at school or nursery. www.worldbookday.org Saturday 7th March

Jack and Jill Market, Stirling 10.30am - 1pm. 40 stalls of quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, and all the rest (0-9 yrs) Adults £1. St Modans High School, Stirling. To book a stall visit www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Treasure Planet (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Birdfest Theatre present My Friend Mole at the Macrobert Join Birdsnest Theatre as they weave this gentle tale of a very special friendship and the imagination. Using live music, storytelling and a rich visual language that will delight and surprise it’s audience. 11am and 2pm. www.macrobert.org Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th March

Sing-a-long Frozen (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 2.30pm.

Wednesday 11th to Saturday 14th March

Stirling Scouts and Guides Gang Show at the Macrobert Local scouts and guides return with their production of Stirling Gang Show. A company of a hundred will perform an evening of song, dance and laughter for the whole family. 7.30pm.

Friday 27th March

Wear a Hat Day the UK’s fun-filled, premier annual brain tumour awareness event helping support long-term research and saving lives. www. braintumourresearch.org/ wearahatday

Sunday 1st March

Little Seedlings Club at Dobbies check in store for details.

Monday 2nd and Tuesday 3rd March

Forth Valley Schools Dance Competition at the Macrobert 400 secondary school pupils

Check out our new ‘what’s on’ guide on our website at www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk

The largest and still the best network of performing arts schools in the world.

Nurturing and developing young people’s potential through dance, drama and singing. for 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.

For a prospectus, call Stagecoach Stirling now on: 0131 337 7774 or email: stirling@stagecoach.co.uk

University Sports Centre

Family sport in a welcoming environment • Parent & child memberships for equivalent of £27 a month

STAGECOACH STIRLING Enrolling now for JANUARY 2015

• Children’s swimming, golf, gymnastics, tennis and trampolining classes • Hall hire great for badminton, short tennis and table tennis • Health classes for mums-to-be • Café to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee

01786 466900 www.stir.ac.uk/sports-centre

The University of Stirling is a charity registered in Scotland, number SC 011159.

FALKIRK COMMUNITY TRUST HEALTH & FITNESS

the shake off ve post-festi blues aNd get your

k r a sp

back!

No joiNiNg fee wheN you sigN up iN jaNuary! over 125 weekly classes | flexible memberships | no contract

www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/fitness

Falkirk Fitness | bo’ness recreation centre | grangemouth sports complex | the mariner centre Falkirk Community Trust gratefully acknowledges the support of Falkirk Council